(spelling of fictional characters and places are variable due to translation discrepancies)
Cover of the first volume of Fullmetal Alchemist
Key Reasons for my choice:
The key reasons why I chose this series are my partiality for the storyline, my long-lived intent to read this manga, and my prior knowledge of the various references and hidden meanings alluded to throughout the text.
Firstly, two unique anime based off this manga were created a few years ago, and I have seen both of them at least once. As a result, I already know the general storyline, although each anime varied in differing amounts from the text. The second anime, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is my favorite television show of all time, so I already love the characters and the plotline of this series.
Secondly, in the past I have been able to read a few volumes of this manga when borrowing them from friends, but I never have had a chance or much of a reason to bother reading the rest even though I wished to. Given the length of the series (27 volumes, 108 chapters, and 4782 pages) the manga would take a long time to read if read frivolously, but by reading it for this project, I had motivation to read it both quickly and thoroughly; and, because I was reading it for homework, I was able to participate in one of my favorite hobbies even at school.
Lastly, by watching the two series, I have learned to appreciate the various themes and references to history found in this fictional manga. In my Ancient World History Honors class, the names of various people and places whom I didn’t know were based off real life were mentioned, such as Xerxes: the name of an ancient civilization from the manga and the name of a Persian emperor in history. I am also aware of numerous hidden meanings and examples of symbolism in the series of which I look forward to elaborating on in this project. Overall, I chose to read Fullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa for this project due to my favoritism for the series, my plans from a while back to read it, and my interest in the many suggested hidden meanings throughout.
Genres:
The manga Fullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa can be lumped into numerous genres and sub-genres, including, shōnen manga, historical fiction, military, multi-cultural, and science fiction.
First of all, it falls into the category of shōnen manga due to the ample amount of combat and humor. These are both key aspects of the shōnen genre of Japanese manga, which is geared towards the interests of teenagers in general, and boys in particular. Also, even though the plot, characters, and settings are fictional, many names and characteristics are based off of history. For example, most of the proceedings of the plotline occur in the early 20th Century, and the majority of technology is based off actual technology from the time and although the year if off by some, the genocide of the main government in Fullmetal Alchemist against a race of people called Ishvalans is comparable to the Holocaust.
Next, the series is also an example of military fiction due to the main character’s post to the militaristic government of his country, and the military’s plots being the key conflict throughout the volumes. The country of Amestris is a military dictatorship similar to that of the Nazi party with absolute power of both the government and military.
Map of Amestris and surrounding countries
Moreover, Fullmetal Alchemist can also be considered multicultural. Even though the country of Amestris and its neighboring countries are all fictional, many of them are somewhat based off actual cultures. For example, the government of Amestris is akin to that of Germany during WWII. Also, the culture, dynasties, and geographic location of Xing are reminiscent of China. The country Aerugo and Drachma are similar to Italy and Russia, respectively, due to their relations with Amestris/Germany and in their military appearances
And lastly, this manga is of the science fiction genre as a result of the science of alchemy. This ability of alchemy is based off research and theories from throughout history, however it is science fiction due to the fact that the many studies of the science of alchemy always proved false and was never successful in real life.
Summary of Plot:
Edward and Alphonse Elric, the children of Trisha Elric and Von Hohenheim, grew up in Resembool in the eastern part of the country Amestris. When Ed was only a few years old, his father abandoned his family, and soon after his mother fell ill and died in an epidemic. With both their parents gone, their neighbor, Pinako Rockbell, raised the Elric siblings.
Before their mother died but after Hohenheim left, the young Ed and Al found their father’s research on alchemy and taught themselves. Encouraged by their mother, the two boys were intrigued by the science of alchemy. Edward and Alphonse, but Ed in particular, were childhood prodigies. Alchemy was a science that normally took years of research, but Ed and Al understood it at a young age.
Von Hohenheim, Trisha Elric, and a young Edward and Alphonse
When Trisha died, they were left heartbroken, and her sons made up their minds that they would try to resurrect her through human transmutation, an illegal taboo in the country of Amestris. The two boys managed to become apprentices to a talented alchemist, Izumi Curtis. Once they returned home and found what they believed was the solution to bringing a dead human back to life, Ed and Al attempted human transmutation. However, their endeavor failed: what they created wasn’t even human, and as repercussions of their try, Ed lost his left leg while Al lost his entire body. Desperate to save his only remaining family member Edward managed to seal Al’s soul to a suit of armor by sacrificing his right arm as the price. Al, Pinako, and Pinako’s granddaughter Winry barely saved Edward from dying from loss of blood, but their was nothing they could do to save him emotionally.
After a year of silent mourning, the brothers were visited by members of the military who had heard of two alchemical geniuses in the area. Colonel Mustang, and alchemist himself, was infuriated when he discovered their disastrous attempt to resurrect their dead mother. However, he promised to hide their unlawful transmutation once he understood their situation. Also, even though he wasn’t expecting children to be the recruits he sought, he still offered the brothers a chance to become state alchemists: alchemists who were paid by the military to conduct their research and be human weapons.
Inspired by a chance for funding to seek for a way to restore his brother’s body, Ed was determined to become a state alchemist. However, with a missing arm and leg, he had a difficult path ahead of him. The Rockbells outfitted him with an automail (advanced prosthetic) arm and leg, but he still had to go through a painful year-long recovery before taking the examination to become a state alchemist.
Edward Elric easily passed the test due to his heightened abilities and he became the youngest state alchemist at the tender age of 12. As a member of the military, he and his brother Alphonse begin traveling throughout the country of Amestris, searching for a way to restore their bodies. One item they search for is the Philosopher’s Stone, a fabled item that supposedly grants unlimited power and immortality. This quest leads to their discovery of corruption within the government, the true purpose of the country Amestris, and details regarding the creation and abuse of the Philosopher’s Stone.
Character Discussion:
Edward Elric
Edward Elric is one of the main protagonists of the series. His physical features, personality traits, personal agenda make up who he his.
Appearance wise, Ed stands out for numerous reasons. Firstly, his total height including platform shoes and antennae hair is about 5’ 5”, but according to some sources he is really only 4’ 11” So, being a 15-year-old at the start of the series, he is rather short. Also, he has golden hair and eyes, both indicators of his Xerxesian ancestry; the hair of which is usually kept back in a braid or at least a ponytail. The clothing he usually clad in is compromised of boots, black leather pants, brown belt, black tank-top, a black long-sleeved jacket, white gloves, and a scarlet cloak emblazoned with a black Flamel’s Cross on the backside. His reasons for wearing such attire are partly to hide his automail right arm and left leg, but also to express his somewhat garish tastes.
Next, Edward’s personality also characterizes him. In general, he tends to be very sarcastic, quick to offend, quick to be offended, and pessimistic. Hardship throughout his childhood has led him to have such a harsh personality as a sort of emotional shield against further sorrow. However, the suffering has also led to him being so determinedly set in his goals and understanding towards those who have also gone through pain. For example, when Rose, a teenage girl who has lost her last hope to go back to the life she once had, became distraught and asked Ed for help, he simply stated, “Move on. Stand up and walk. After all, you have perfect legs to stand on.” (Chapter 2)
Although he may seem to have his own interests at heart, Ed’s drive in his quest as a state alchemist is to find a way to restore his brother’s body. Throughout the series, people often assume that the brothers still want to find a way to resurrect their mother, but Ed’s only concerns are to reimburse Alphonse for what he took from him.
Alphonse Elric
Alphonse Elric
, the brother of Edward, is the other main hero of Fullmetal Alchemist. Al’s unique appearance and compassionate disposition make up the essence of who he is.
Although his human body is similar to Ed’s with the gold eyes and hair, throughout the majority of the series, Alphonse looks nothing like Edward with his armor body. The armor his soul was bonded to is taller than the average man, and much taller than Ed. Consequently, he is often mistaken to be the older brother and the state alchemist rather than Ed who is typically called, “pipsqueak”. Without a proper body, Al is incapable of any pain, feeling, hunger, sleep, or even becoming tired. Although many people think of the lack of those attributes as an advantage, Al hates being stuck in an unfeeling body. However, even though he has unarguable reasons to feel self-pity, he felt responsible for not discouraging the attempt at human transmutation of which ruined the brothers’ lives, so he devotes himself to restoring Edward’s limbs.
Moreover, not only does Alphonse differ from Ed in physical appearance, their personalities are near opposites. Al tends to be extremely forgiving and kind to everyone, regardless of who they are. The only times he gets angry are when someone does something against Edward. In that way, he is more like and older brother to Ed than a younger brother. Also, even though he is very kind and humble in general, the one person he sees himself above is Edward, “… I’m a much better fighter than him, but I’m not short tempered at all!! I’m a perfect gentleman!!” (Chapter 62)
Winry Rockbell is the childhood friend of the Elrics who isn’t one of the protagonists, but does play a part in the plot. The most important aspects of her character include her career and personality.
Winry Rockbell
From a young age, Winry was raised by her grandmother Pinako. Both her parents were killed during the Ishvalan War of Extermination during which they were doctors treating the wounded on both sides of the conflict. Growing up, she originally learned a lot about medical science but she ended up an automail mechanic who worked along side Pinako at their home. When Edward lost his leg and arm, she was the one who made his automail and thus she shows up numerous times in the manga whenever Ed has broken his automail and needs it fixed. Also, Winry and Pinako are the only people like family left to Ed and Al, so their rare visits to Resembool are spent at the Rockbell household.
Also, Winry’s temperament makes an impact on the reader. She is very emotional and sensitive, so whenever Ed and Al get in even just a little bit of trouble, she throws a fit. For example, Whenever Edward shows up on her doorstep with broken automail, she usually throws a wrench at his head and calls him an idiot. However, throughout the series, Winry and Edward both begin to have feelings for each other, although they still get plenty annoyed with each other. For example, when Winry admits to herself that she loves Ed, she still insults him, “Why am I in love with this weirdo?” (Chapter 70)
Big ideas/Themes:
Numerous minor life lessons appear throughout the series Fullmetal Alchemist, but out of all those, some of the major reoccurring themes include sacrifice, relying on others, and tolerance.
The concept of the need for sacrifice to accomplish goals is probably the most emphasized idea in the series, as it is stressed right from the beginning and is continually reiterated. Starting right at the beginning of the first chapter, this lesson is quoted as a caption to the suffering that the Elric brothers went through, “A painless lesson is one without any meaning. One who does not sacrifice anything cannot achieve anything.” Not only does this citation refer to the fact that life is difficult, but that if it wasn’t hard, nothing would be accomplished; it refers to alchemy’s law of equivalent exchange, “Humankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return. To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. That is alchemy’s first Law of Equivalent Exchange.” This law is brought up numerous times as a metaphor for the difficult quest of which Edward and Alphonse had set off on. They spent so much blood, sweat, and tears during their journey that they rarely consider giving up due to the fact that so much effort would be wasted when they know that they are bound to reach something as a result of giving so much.
As for the life lesson of relying on others, this is something that the Elric brothers themselves learn through the series. Even though Ed and Al consider themselves amply capable of facing the dangers they meet along the way, they keep are still only young teens. They may be talented alchemists and fighters, but they still get hurt both physically and emotionally. And, do they damage themselves through their journey, but they cause other people worry and suffering. Multiple people including Winry and members of the military have to tell the brothers multiple times that they have to learn to think about how their actions affect others and that it is OK to rely on adults every once in a while.
Lastly, tolerance, towards those who have wronged you and those who are different than you, may be the most important moral found in this series. And, this lesson doesn’t only apply to the Elrics, numerous people including Winry, a man of whom nearly his entire race was exterminated by the government, and members of the military learn the importance of tolerance as well. A big part of this point is that one needs to avoid prejudice such as against one who is of a different race than you, even if you have valid reasons to mistrust those people. Instead, an individual should express ambiguity until one can create an unbiased opinion based on the actions and words of a single person. Also, the idea that even though forgiveness may be nigh impossible, one should at least be tolerant towards one who has committed a wrong as great as murder as long as the culprit has apologized to the fullest.
Major conflict:
Although is key plotline of this series is the quest of Edward and Alphonse Elric to restore their bodies, the main conflict exists between the Elric brothers and their colleagues against the corrupt government of Amestris alongside the Homunculi and a figure referred to as ‘Father’.
The Homunculi from Fullmetal Alchemist (Wrath, Gluttony, Lust, Sloth, Pride, Envy, and Greed)
The brothers’ initial journey began with a general search to in some way return their bodies to the way they were, but their research led them to search specifically for the Philosopher’s Stone of which supposedly would make it possible to ignore the law of equivalent exchange. However, this ended up a more complicated expedition than planned.
As the brothers investigation leads them to research conducted by the government itself, they uncover the military’s involvement in sadistic human experimentation. However, over time they find that the corruption goes much deeper than they thought. Overtime they learn that Amestris and its government as a whole are all part of a twisted conspiracy.
Unfortunately for Edward, after discovering the military’s horrible secrets it is already to late to avoid the chain of events that the government had already put into play. When Ed initially tries to resign from his post, the Fuhrer himself threatens the people closest to him, leaving Edward no choice but to cooperate. Although, at Ed’s request, the Fuhrer grants him permission to continue in his personal quest to restore Al’s body, promising not to interfere with the government’s plans. Even with the threat of losing the people that the brothers hold dear, Ed and Al work behind the scenes with other people they had met along the way against the government. However, this is by no means an easy task. Right from the start, a group of sub-humans called Homunculi associated with the government work against them. This group is at the very core of the corruption within the government and are directly involved with the Philosopher’s Stone.
Although Ed and Al’s goal was originally just to restore they bodies, they get dragged into a complicated conspiracy that ultimately puts not just Amestris, but the entire world at risk. However, with the help of family, friends, colleagues, and former enemies, they still fight against the forces that seek to gain power at the expense of others.
Edward's silver State Alchemist watch
Symbolic Image:
When Edward Elric received the title of State Alchemist, he received a silver pocket watch as proof of his rank. Before Alphonse and he left on their journey to find a way to restore their bodies, they burnt their empty house down so they would have no choice but to continue on with their journey. Afterwards, Edward engraved "Don't forget 3. Oct. 10" into his watch as a physical reminder and symbol of his actions that he hoped would prevent him from ever revisiting his mistakes. Although he himself viewed it as a silly thing to do, he holds the watch dear to him so that he will always remember his past mistakes and what he was sworn to do to reverse the consequences.
New/unusual words:
1.Agnostic - (when asked if he was listening when people are explaining a certain priest’s ability to perform ‘miracles’) “Nope. I’m agnostic” (Chapter 1 - Edward Elric) - adj. the characteristic of being doubtful or unbelieving, or such as in this case being an atheistic who does not believe in any deity or any concept that can not be readily proven.
2.Alchemy - “That transformation reaction is normal alchemy, right?” (Chapter 1 - Alphonse Elric) [This is the first sentence the word alchemy is used in, it is used multiple times throughout the series] - n. a science which entails the understanding, deconstruction, and reconstruction of matter; to create something using alchemy, something of equal material must be used; a pseudoscience in real life, but in Amestris it is an nonfictional skill by many independent scientists and by the military for research and combat.
3.Fuhrer - “My intention as an individual is to become the Fuhrer as well as to avenge Hughes.” (Chapter 16 - Colonel Roy Mustang) - proper n. the dictator over a militaristic government, Hitler was referred to as this, the leader of the country of Amestris.
4.Homunculi - “You know what a ‘Homunculus’ is, right? An artificially created human being. A person that’s not human. The person before you now is one of them.” (Chapter 27 - Greed (the homunculus) - n. a humanoid being created through the use of alchemy, homunculi have a Philosopher’s Stone at their core and they typically have superhuman abilities, they are technically immortal and capable of rapid regeneration.
5.Indomitable - “There’s nothing more pleasing to the ears than the sound of indomitable wills clashing in battle.” (Chapter 92 - Solf J. Kimblee) - adj. unwilling to give up, persevering, expressing fortitude.
Similar existing works:
Asides from the anime and movie adaptations of the series, there are multiple existing pieces of entertainment similar to Fullmetal Alchemist of which I have enjoyed in the past. Some of these include Darker than BLACK, Blue Exorcist, and Black Butler
Illustration on the cover of the 13th volume of the series
One series akin to the manga is the anime Darker than BLACK. Besides the obvious fact that it is also Japanese in origin, both include aspects of sci-fi as well as military involvement. In Darker than Black, the main character has a certain fictional ability, namely the control of electricity, similarly to how Edward Elric is capable of using alchemy. Also, both characters are only one in a group of numerous people with similar abilities just as Edward is only one of many alchemists. Moreover, in both series, the main character is initially part of an overpowering organization under which they work as pawns. And beyond that, they also both end up working against group in an effort to save everything they care for.
Secondly, the Japanese series Blue Exorcist (Ao no Exorcist) is similar to Fullmetal Alchemist. The main parallel here is the relationship between the two main
characters of each series as brothers. Just as the younger Alphonse acts like an older brother to Edward, the younger twin Yukio Okumura is more responsible than the older Rin. Also, each set of brothers is usually in harmony, but they both still hit rough patches with misunderstanding and secrets between them, that end up resolved through the willingness of one brother willing to sacrifice himself for the other.
Lastly, and yet another anime, the show Black Butler is analogous to Fullmetal Alchemist in time period and government involvement/corruption. Black Butler takes place during England’s Victorian Era, or in the later 1800’s to be precise. Meanwhile, the manga takes place in the early 1900’s in an environment similar to that of Europe. Although the former takes place pre-WWI and the latter, roughly post-WWII, the technology is somewhat similar in both series as well as the setting. Also, in both series the main character is working with the government at first but still working on their own personal agenda, but only to later realize the governments’ involvement in their past and its corrupt, leading the character to work at destroying the organization.
The novel The Road by Cormac McCarthy describes the life of a father and son in a post-apocalyptic setting. Not much detail is given in regards to the actual cause of the widespread death and destruction, but the world is in a state characterized by barely survivable living conditions. As winter approaches, the harsh countryside becomes even more punitive, so the father and son set out southward towards the coast. Already in poor condition, the journey takes its toll as the pair struggles to survive amid a burnt landscape full of sickness, starvation, and the selfishness of the remaining people.
Brief Description of 3 characters
The man (his name is never revealed), the father of the boy, is one of the main characters of this novel. His ultimate goal is to keep his son safe at all costs, regardless of the consequences that affect him. In his willingness to sacrifice himself, he can be considered very selfless. However, he doesn’t hesitate to cause harm to others if it is for the sake of the boy, and in that way he is rather
selfish. The man is very hardy and difficult to crack despite the pressure of his circumstances. However, the only reason why he has such initiative to survive is for the sole purpose of helping his son survive.
The boy, the man’s son, is the second main character in The Road.
One can only make assumptions about his age, and it is even more difficult to guess given his personality. Because he grew up in a post-apocalyptic world, his intellect is lacking in some ways and more advanced in others. For example, he has a hard time believing his father when told stories about the world the way it once was, making him seem somewhat childish. Meanwhile, he has become hardened to sights that would make even adults scream. In most ways, though, he is quite helpless, but through the course of the story he becomes more self-reliant.
The woman, the wife of the man and the mother of the boy,is only mentioned a few times throughout the story. Deceased prior to the events of the story, she is only brought up in recollections of the past. She was quite stubborn to the point of utter inflexibility in the event of the apocalypse. Despite the efforts of her husband, she was driven to the breaking point.
Description of essential conflict
The main conflict of this novel is man versus nature, or more accurately the struggle of two people against nature and the remnants of society. Even more specifically, it is the fight of a father to keep his son alive through the tumultuous post-apocalyptic world.
A large part of their efforts are focused towards simply avoiding starvation, which is a constant threat on an Earth devoid nearly all plant and animal life. Even though most other people resorted to cannibalism, the father and son pair and determined to avoid stooping to such as level, but this makes the task of finding anything edible that much moredifficult.
Going hand in hand with that is the hardship of maintaining moral standards. With survival at the top of everyone’s priority list, few people consider how their actions affect others, so when one does keep this in mind, such as the man and the boy, that only makes their lives more difficult.
The environment itself is another factor of the conflict. With ash blotting out the sky, temperatures have plummeted to an extent difficult to survive. Over the years, many supplies have already been scavenged, to finding essential supplies isn’t an easy task. The harsh landscape leads the man and boy to head southwards towards the coastline, but through the course of the journey, they can’t outrun the frigid weather.
Lastly, the presence of other people is one of the most hazardous parts of the father and son’s efforts to survive. With humans as unpredictable as they are in the current time, coming across another person is always dangerous. The pair always is aware of the possibility of having their foraged materials stolen and the threat of being killed for food or to remove competition is something they always keep in mind.
5 significant quotes
“Mostly he worried about their shoes. That and food. Always food.” (Page 17)
“He shielded the glare of it with is hand and when he did he could see almost to the rear of the box. Human bodies. Sprawled in every attitude.
Dried and shrunken in their rotted clothes. The small wad of burning paper drew down to a wisp of flame and then died out leaving a faint pattern for just a moment in the incandescence like the shape of a flower, a molten rose. Then all was dark again.” (Page 47)
“I want to see him, Papa. There’s no one to see. Do you want to die? Is that what you want? I dont care, the boy said, sobbing. I dont care. The man stopped. He stopped and squatted and held him. I’m sorry, he said. Dont say that. You musnt say that.” (Page 85)
“He pulled one of the boxes down and clawed it open and held up a can of peaches. It’s here because someone thought it might be needed. But they didnt get to use it. No. They didnt. They died. Yes. Is it okay for us to take it? Yes. It is. They would want us to. Just like we would want them to. They were the good guys? Yes. They were. Like us. Like us. Yes. So it’s okay. Yes. It’s okay.” (Pages 139-140)
“He turned and looked at the boy. Maybe he understood for the first time that to the boy he was himself an alien. A being from a planet that no longer existed. The tales of which were suspect. He could not construct for the child’s pleasure the world he’s lost without constructing the loss as well and he thought perhaps the child had known this better than he.” (Pages 153-154)
Explanation of main theme
The plot of this novel is based mainly just on survival and honestly, the ending isn’t fully pleasant. But, the theme of willingness to sacrifice everything for the single most important thing does stand out. The man himself is the example of this moral as he sacrifices inevitable everything for what is most important to him: his son. In the end it turns out his labors weren’t futile, but that was only because he dedicated his one and all to the sake of his son. Also, he didn’t take the easy route towards his goal. One major difficulty the man experienced was finding enough food for the both of them. He could of scavenged off the remains of other humans like many other people did, but instead he choose to instill in his son important values that the rest of human society had chosen to neglect.
(spelling of fictional characters and places are variable due to translation discrepancies)
Key Reasons for my choice:
The key reasons why I chose this series are my partiality for the storyline, my long-lived intent to read this manga, and my prior knowledge of the various references and hidden meanings alluded to throughout the text.
Firstly, two unique anime based off this manga were created a few years ago, and I have seen both of them at least once. As a result, I already know the general storyline, although each anime varied in differing amounts from the text. The second anime, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is my favorite television show of all time, so I already love the characters and the plotline of this series.
Secondly, in the past I have been able to read a few volumes of this manga when borrowing them from friends, but I never have had a chance or much of a reason to bother reading the rest even though I wished to. Given the length of the series (27 volumes, 108 chapters, and 4782 pages) the manga would take a long time to read if read frivolously, but by reading it for this project, I had motivation to read it both quickly and thoroughly; and, because I was reading it for homework, I was able to participate in one of my favorite hobbies even at school.
Lastly, by watching the two series, I have learned to appreciate the various themes and references to history found in this fictional manga. In my Ancient World History Honors class, the names of various people and places whom I didn’t know were based off real life were mentioned, such as Xerxes: the name of an ancient civilization from the manga and the name of a Persian emperor in history. I am also aware of numerous hidden meanings and examples of symbolism in the series of which I look forward to elaborating on in this project. Overall, I chose to read Fullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa for this project due to my favoritism for the series, my plans from a while back to read it, and my interest in the many suggested hidden meanings throughout.
Genres:
The manga Fullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa can be lumped into numerous genres and sub-genres, including, shōnen manga, historical fiction, military, multi-cultural, and science fiction.
First of all, it falls into the category of shōnen manga due to the ample amount of combat and humor. These are both key aspects of the shōnen genre of Japanese manga, which is geared towards the interests of teenagers in general, and boys in particular. Also, even though the plot, characters, and settings are fictional, many names and characteristics are based off of history. For example, most of the proceedings of the plotline occur in the early 20th Century, and the majority of technology is based off actual technology from the time and although the year if off by some, the genocide of the main government in Fullmetal Alchemist against a race of people called Ishvalans is comparable to the Holocaust.
Next, the series is also an example of military fiction due to the main character’s post to the militaristic government of his country, and the military’s plots being the key conflict throughout the volumes. The country of Amestris is a military dictatorship similar to that of the Nazi party with absolute power of both the government and military.
Moreover, Fullmetal Alchemist can also be considered multicultural. Even though the country of Amestris and its neighboring countries are all fictional, many of them are somewhat based off actual cultures. For example, the government of Amestris is akin to that of Germany during WWII. Also, the culture, dynasties, and geographic location of Xing are reminiscent of China. The country Aerugo and Drachma are similar to Italy and Russia, respectively, due to their relations with Amestris/Germany and in their military appearances
And lastly, this manga is of the science fiction genre as a result of the science of alchemy. This ability of alchemy is based off research and theories from throughout history, however it is science fiction due to the fact that the many studies of the science of alchemy always proved false and was never successful in real life.
Summary of Plot:
Edward and Alphonse Elric, the children of Trisha Elric and Von Hohenheim, grew up in Resembool in the eastern part of the country Amestris. When Ed was only a few years old, his father abandoned his family, and soon after his mother fell ill and died in an epidemic. With both their parents gone, their neighbor, Pinako Rockbell, raised the Elric siblings.
Before their mother died but after Hohenheim left, the young Ed and Al found their father’s research on alchemy and taught themselves. Encouraged by their mother, the two boys were intrigued by the science of alchemy. Edward and Alphonse, but Ed in particular, were childhood prodigies. Alchemy was a science that normally took years of research, but Ed and Al understood it at a young age.
When Trisha died, they were left heartbroken, and her sons made up their minds that they would try to resurrect her through human transmutation, an illegal taboo in the country of Amestris. The two boys managed to become apprentices to a talented alchemist, Izumi Curtis. Once they returned home and found what they believed was the solution to bringing a dead human back to life, Ed and Al attempted human transmutation. However, their endeavor failed: what they created wasn’t even human, and as repercussions of their try, Ed lost his left leg while Al lost his entire body. Desperate to save his only remaining family member Edward managed to seal Al’s soul to a suit of armor by sacrificing his right arm as the price. Al, Pinako, and Pinako’s granddaughter Winry barely saved Edward from dying from loss of blood, but their was nothing they could do to save him emotionally.
After a year of silent mourning, the brothers were visited by members of the military who had heard of two alchemical geniuses in the area. Colonel Mustang, and alchemist himself, was infuriated when he discovered their disastrous attempt to resurrect their dead mother. However, he promised to hide their unlawful transmutation once he understood their situation. Also, even though he wasn’t expecting children to be the recruits he sought, he still offered the brothers a chance to become state alchemists: alchemists who were paid by the military to conduct their research and be human weapons.
Inspired by a chance for funding to seek for a way to restore his brother’s body, Ed was determined to become a state alchemist. However, with a missing arm and leg, he had a difficult path ahead of him. The Rockbells outfitted him with an automail (advanced prosthetic) arm and leg, but he still had to go through a painful year-long recovery before taking the examination to become a state alchemist.
Edward Elric easily passed the test due to his heightened abilities and he became the youngest state alchemist at the tender age of 12. As a member of the military, he and his brother Alphonse begin traveling throughout the country of Amestris, searching for a way to restore their bodies. One item they search for is the Philosopher’s Stone, a fabled item that supposedly grants unlimited power and immortality. This quest leads to their discovery of corruption within the government, the true purpose of the country Amestris, and details regarding the creation and abuse of the Philosopher’s Stone.
Character Discussion:
Edward Elric is one of the main protagonists of the series. His physical features, personality traits, personal agenda make up who he his.
Appearance wise, Ed stands out for numerous reasons. Firstly, his total height including platform shoes and antennae hair is about 5’ 5”, but according to some sources he is really only 4’ 11” So, being a 15-year-old at the start of the series, he is rather short. Also, he has golden hair and eyes, both indicators of his Xerxesian ancestry; the hair of which is usually kept back in a braid or at least a ponytail. The clothing he usually clad in is compromised of boots, black leather pants, brown belt, black tank-top, a black long-sleeved jacket, white gloves, and a scarlet cloak emblazoned with a black Flamel’s Cross on the backside. His reasons for wearing such attire are partly to hide his automail right arm and left leg, but also to express his somewhat garish tastes.
Next, Edward’s personality also characterizes him. In general, he tends to be very sarcastic, quick to offend, quick to be offended, and pessimistic. Hardship throughout his childhood has led him to have such a harsh personality as a sort of emotional shield against further sorrow. However, the suffering has also led to him being so determinedly set in his goals and understanding towards those who have also gone through pain. For example, when Rose, a teenage girl who has lost her last hope to go back to the life she once had, became distraught and asked Ed for help, he simply stated, “Move on. Stand up and walk. After all, you have perfect legs to stand on.” (Chapter 2)
Although he may seem to have his own interests at heart, Ed’s drive in his quest as a state alchemist is to find a way to restore his brother’s body. Throughout the series, people often assume that the brothers still want to find a way to resurrect their mother, but Ed’s only concerns are to reimburse Alphonse for what he took from him.
Alphonse Elric
Although his human body is similar to Ed’s with the gold eyes and hair, throughout the majority of the series, Alphonse looks nothing like Edward with his armor body. The armor his soul was bonded to is taller than the average man, and much taller than Ed. Consequently, he is often mistaken to be the older brother and the state alchemist rather than Ed who is typically called, “pipsqueak”. Without a proper body, Al is incapable of any pain, feeling, hunger, sleep, or even becoming tired. Although many people think of the lack of those attributes as an advantage, Al hates being stuck in an unfeeling body. However, even though he has unarguable reasons to feel self-pity, he felt responsible for not discouraging the attempt at human transmutation of which ruined the brothers’ lives, so he devotes himself to restoring Edward’s limbs.
Moreover, not only does Alphonse differ from Ed in physical appearance, their personalities are near opposites. Al tends to be extremely forgiving and kind to everyone, regardless of who they are. The only times he gets angry are when someone does something against Edward. In that way, he is more like and older brother to Ed than a younger brother. Also, even though he is very kind and humble in general, the one person he sees himself above is Edward, “… I’m a much better fighter than him, but I’m not short tempered at all!! I’m a perfect gentleman!!” (Chapter 62)
Winry Rockbell is the childhood friend of the Elrics who isn’t one of the protagonists, but does play a part in the plot. The most important aspects of her character include her career and personality.
From a young age, Winry was raised by her grandmother Pinako. Both her parents were killed during the Ishvalan War of Extermination during which they were doctors treating the wounded on both sides of the conflict. Growing up, she originally learned a lot about medical science but she ended up an automail mechanic who worked along side Pinako at their home. When Edward lost his leg and arm, she was the one who made his automail and thus she shows up numerous times in the manga whenever Ed has broken his automail and needs it fixed. Also, Winry and Pinako are the only people like family left to Ed and Al, so their rare visits to Resembool are spent at the Rockbell household.
Also, Winry’s temperament makes an impact on the reader. She is very emotional and sensitive, so whenever Ed and Al get in even just a little bit of trouble, she throws a fit. For example, Whenever Edward shows up on her doorstep with broken automail, she usually throws a wrench at his head and calls him an idiot. However, throughout the series, Winry and Edward both begin to have feelings for each other, although they still get plenty annoyed with each other. For example, when Winry admits to herself that she loves Ed, she still insults him, “Why am I in love with this weirdo?” (Chapter 70)
Big ideas/Themes:
Numerous minor life lessons appear throughout the series Fullmetal Alchemist, but out of all those, some of the major reoccurring themes include sacrifice, relying on others, and tolerance.
The concept of the need for sacrifice to accomplish goals is probably the most emphasized idea in the series, as it is stressed right from the beginning and is continually reiterated. Starting right at the beginning of the first chapter, this lesson is quoted as a caption to the suffering that the Elric brothers went through, “A painless lesson is one without any meaning. One who does not sacrifice anything cannot achieve anything.” Not only does this citation refer to the fact that life is difficult, but that if it wasn’t hard, nothing would be accomplished; it refers to alchemy’s law of equivalent exchange, “Humankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return. To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. That is alchemy’s first Law of Equivalent Exchange.” This law is brought up numerous times as a metaphor for the difficult quest of which Edward and Alphonse had set off on. They spent so much blood, sweat, and tears during their journey that they rarely consider giving up due to the fact that so much effort would be wasted when they know that they are bound to reach something as a result of giving so much.
As for the life lesson of relying on others, this is something that the Elric brothers themselves learn through the series. Even though Ed and Al consider themselves amply capable of facing the dangers they meet along the way, they keep are still only young teens. They may be talented alchemists and fighters, but they still get hurt both physically and emotionally. And, do they damage themselves through their journey, but they cause other people worry and suffering. Multiple people including Winry and members of the military have to tell the brothers multiple times that they have to learn to think about how their actions affect others and that it is OK to rely on adults every once in a while.
Lastly, tolerance, towards those who have wronged you and those who are different than you, may be the most important moral found in this series. And, this lesson doesn’t only apply to the Elrics, numerous people including Winry, a man of whom nearly his entire race was exterminated by the government, and members of the military learn the importance of tolerance as well. A big part of this point is that one needs to avoid prejudice such as against one who is of a different race than you, even if you have valid reasons to mistrust those people. Instead, an individual should express ambiguity until one can create an unbiased opinion based on the actions and words of a single person. Also, the idea that even though forgiveness may be nigh impossible, one should at least be tolerant towards one who has committed a wrong as great as murder as long as the culprit has apologized to the fullest.
Major conflict:
Although is key plotline of this series is the quest of Edward and Alphonse Elric to restore their bodies, the main conflict exists between the Elric brothers and their colleagues against the corrupt government of Amestris alongside the Homunculi and a figure referred to as ‘Father’.
The brothers’ initial journey began with a general search to in some way return their bodies to the way they were, but their research led them to search specifically for the Philosopher’s Stone of which supposedly would make it possible to ignore the law of equivalent exchange. However, this ended up a more complicated expedition than planned.
As the brothers investigation leads them to research conducted by the government itself, they uncover the military’s involvement in sadistic human experimentation. However, over time they find that the corruption goes much deeper than they thought. Overtime they learn that Amestris and its government as a whole are all part of a twisted conspiracy.
Unfortunately for Edward, after discovering the military’s horrible secrets it is already to late to avoid the chain of events that the government had already put into play. When Ed initially tries to resign from his post, the Fuhrer himself threatens the people closest to him, leaving Edward no choice but to cooperate. Although, at Ed’s request, the Fuhrer grants him permission to continue in his personal quest to restore Al’s body, promising not to interfere with the government’s plans. Even with the threat of losing the people that the brothers hold dear, Ed and Al work behind the scenes with other people they had met along the way against the government. However, this is by no means an easy task. Right from the start, a group of sub-humans called Homunculi associated with the government work against them. This group is at the very core of the corruption within the government and are directly involved with the Philosopher’s Stone.
Although Ed and Al’s goal was originally just to restore they bodies, they get dragged into a complicated conspiracy that ultimately puts not just Amestris, but the entire world at risk. However, with the help of family, friends, colleagues, and former enemies, they still fight against the forces that seek to gain power at the expense of others.
Symbolic Image:
When Edward Elric received the title of State Alchemist, he received a silver pocket watch as proof of his rank. Before Alphonse and he left on their journey to find a way to restore their bodies, they burnt their empty house down so they would have no choice but to continue on with their journey. Afterwards, Edward engraved "Don't forget 3. Oct. 10" into his watch as a physical reminder and symbol of his actions that he hoped would prevent him from ever revisiting his mistakes. Although he himself viewed it as a silly thing to do, he holds the watch dear to him so that he will always remember his past mistakes and what he was sworn to do to reverse the consequences.
New/unusual words:
1.Agnostic - (when asked if he was listening when people are explaining a certain priest’s ability to perform ‘miracles’) “Nope. I’m agnostic” (Chapter 1 - Edward Elric) - adj. the characteristic of being doubtful or unbelieving, or such as in this case being an atheistic who does not believe in any deity or any concept that can not be readily proven.
2.Alchemy - “That transformation reaction is normal alchemy, right?” (Chapter 1 - Alphonse Elric) [This is the first sentence the word alchemy is used in, it is used multiple times throughout the series] - n. a science which entails the understanding, deconstruction, and reconstruction of matter; to create something using alchemy, something of equal material must be used; a pseudoscience in real life, but in Amestris it is an nonfictional skill by many independent scientists and by the military for research and combat.
3.Fuhrer - “My intention as an individual is to become the Fuhrer as well as to avenge Hughes.” (Chapter 16 - Colonel Roy Mustang) - proper n. the dictator over a militaristic government, Hitler was referred to as this, the leader of the country of Amestris.
4.Homunculi - “You know what a ‘Homunculus’ is, right? An artificially created human being. A person that’s not human. The person before you now is one of them.” (Chapter 27 - Greed (the homunculus) - n. a humanoid being created through the use of alchemy, homunculi have a Philosopher’s Stone at their core and they typically have superhuman abilities, they are technically immortal and capable of rapid regeneration.
5.Indomitable - “There’s nothing more pleasing to the ears than the sound of indomitable wills clashing in battle.” (Chapter 92 - Solf J. Kimblee) - adj. unwilling to give up, persevering, expressing fortitude.
Similar existing works:
Asides from the anime and movie adaptations of the series, there are multiple existing pieces of entertainment similar to Fullmetal Alchemist of which I have enjoyed in the past. Some of these include Darker than BLACK, Blue Exorcist, and Black Butler
One series akin to the manga is the anime Darker than BLACK. Besides the obvious fact that it is also Japanese in origin, both include aspects of sci-fi as well as military involvement. In Darker than Black, the main character has a certain fictional ability, namely the control of electricity, similarly to how Edward Elric is capable of using alchemy. Also, both characters are only one in a group of numerous people with similar abilities just as Edward is only one of many alchemists. Moreover, in both series, the main character is initially part of an overpowering organization under which they work as pawns. And beyond that, they also both end up working against group in an effort to save everything they care for.
Secondly, the Japanese series Blue Exorcist (Ao no Exorcist) is similar to Fullmetal Alchemist. The main parallel here is the relationship between the two main
characters of each series as brothers. Just as the younger Alphonse acts like an older brother to Edward, the younger twin Yukio Okumura is more responsible than the older Rin. Also, each set of brothers is usually in harmony, but they both still hit rough patches with misunderstanding and secrets between them, that end up resolved through the willingness of one brother willing to sacrifice himself for the other.
Lastly, and yet another anime, the show Black Butler is analogous to Fullmetal Alchemist in time period and government involvement/corruption. Black Butler takes place during England’s Victorian Era, or in the later 1800’s to be precise. Meanwhile, the manga takes place in the early 1900’s in an environment similar to that of Europe. Although the former takes place pre-WWI and the latter, roughly post-WWII, the technology is somewhat similar in both series as well as the setting. Also, in both series the main character is working with the government at first but still working on their own personal agenda, but only to later realize the governments’ involvement in their past and its corrupt, leading the character to work at destroying the organization.
Link to good reads review: My Review of Fullmetal Alchemist
The Road by Cormac McCarthy
Brief Synopsis
The novel The Road by Cormac McCarthy describes the life of a father and son in a post-apocalyptic setting. Not much detail is given in regards to the actual cause of the widespread death and destruction, but the world is in a state characterized by barely survivable living conditions. As winter approaches, the harsh countryside becomes even more punitive, so the father and son set out southward towards the coast. Already in poor condition, the journey takes its toll as the pair struggles to survive amid a burnt landscape full of sickness, starvation, and the selfishness of the remaining people.
Brief Description of 3 characters
The man (his name is never revealed), the father of the boy, is one of the main characters of this novel. His ultimate goal is to keep his son safe at all costs, regardless of the consequences that affect him. In his willingness to sacrifice himself, he can be considered very selfless. However, he doesn’t hesitate to cause harm to others if it is for the sake of the boy, and in that way he is rather
selfish. The man is very hardy and difficult to crack despite the pressure of his circumstances. However, the only reason why he has such initiative to survive is for the sole purpose of helping his son survive.
The boy, the man’s son, is the second main character in The Road.
One can only make assumptions about his age, and it is even more difficult to guess given his personality. Because he grew up in a post-apocalyptic world, his intellect is lacking in some ways and more advanced in others. For example, he has a hard time believing his father when told stories about the world the way it once was, making him seem somewhat childish. Meanwhile, he has become hardened to sights that would make even adults scream. In most ways, though, he is quite helpless, but through the course of the story he becomes more self-reliant.
The woman, the wife of the man and the mother of the boy,is only mentioned a few times throughout the story. Deceased prior to the events of the story, she is only brought up in recollections of the past. She was quite stubborn to the point of utter inflexibility in the event of the apocalypse. Despite the efforts of her husband, she was driven to the breaking point.
Description of essential conflict
The main conflict of this novel is man versus nature, or more accurately the struggle of two people against nature and the remnants of society. Even more specifically, it is the fight of a father to keep his son alive through the tumultuous post-apocalyptic world.
Going hand in hand with that is the hardship of maintaining moral standards. With survival at the top of everyone’s priority list, few people consider how their actions affect others, so when one does keep this in mind, such as the man and the boy, that only makes their lives more difficult.
The environment itself is another factor of the conflict. With ash blotting out the sky, temperatures have plummeted to an extent difficult to survive. Over the years, many supplies have already been scavenged, to finding essential supplies isn’t an easy task. The harsh landscape leads the man and boy to head southwards towards the coastline, but through the course of the journey, they can’t outrun the frigid weather.
Lastly, the presence of other people is one of the most hazardous parts of the father and son’s efforts to survive. With humans as unpredictable as they are in the current time, coming across another person is always dangerous. The pair always is aware of the possibility of having their foraged materials stolen and the threat of being killed for food or to remove competition is something they always keep in mind.
5 significant quotes
“Mostly he worried about their shoes. That and food. Always food.” (Page 17)
“He shielded the glare of it with is hand and when he did he could see almost to the rear of the box. Human bodies. Sprawled in every attitude.
Dried and shrunken in their rotted clothes. The small wad of burning paper drew down to a wisp of flame and then died out leaving a faint pattern for just a moment in the incandescence like the shape of a flower, a molten rose. Then all was dark again.” (Page 47)
“I want to see him, Papa. There’s no one to see. Do you want to die? Is that what you want? I dont care, the boy said, sobbing. I dont care. The man stopped. He stopped and squatted and held him. I’m sorry, he said. Dont say that. You musnt say that.” (Page 85)
“He pulled one of the boxes down and clawed it open and held up a can of peaches. It’s here because someone thought it might be needed. But they didnt get to use it. No. They didnt. They died. Yes. Is it okay for us to take it? Yes. It is. They would want us to. Just like we would want them to. They were the good guys? Yes. They were. Like us. Like us. Yes. So it’s okay. Yes. It’s okay.” (Pages 139-140)
“He turned and looked at the boy. Maybe he understood for the first time that to the boy he was himself an alien. A being from a planet that no longer existed. The tales of which were suspect. He could not construct for the child’s pleasure the world he’s lost without constructing the loss as well and he thought perhaps the child had known this better than he.” (Pages 153-154)
Explanation of main theme
The plot of this novel is based mainly just on survival and honestly, the ending isn’t fully pleasant. But, the theme of willingness to sacrifice everything for the single most important thing does stand out. The man himself is the example of this moral as he sacrifices inevitable everything for what is most important to him: his son. In the end it turns out his labors weren’t futile, but that was only because he dedicated his one and all to the sake of his son. Also, he didn’t take the easy route towards his goal. One major difficulty the man experienced was finding enough food for the both of them. He could of scavenged off the remains of other humans like many other people did, but instead he choose to instill in his son important values that the rest of human society had chosen to neglect.
Video Commentary
Audio Track: Never Too Late by Breaking Benjamin
Link to good reads review: My Review of The Road